Now that social distancing may become a thing of the past (fingers crossed), it’s time for a summer well-lived by bringing the indoors out.
There’s no greater feeling than being surrounded by who we love. That’s why it’s time to entertain in the backyard…and it’s so important to extend the comfort and style of your indoor spaces to your backyard.
Let’s give your outdoor room (AKA the “patio”, AKA summer hang-out central, AKA the place to be!) the same design attention as the inside of your house with these simple and stunning outdoor room ideas.
In fact, let’s make your outdoor room so wondrously inviting that you’ll want to live in it! Keep reading for all the steps you’ll need to make your backyard the most used “room” of the house…
Step 1: Creatively Consider How the Space will be Used
Are you craving a good old fashioned BBQ party? You know, steaks on the grill and s’mores at sunset. This summer, imagine finding ways to bring more of what you love to your own backyard: Sunbathing? Swimming? What about SOCIALIZING?
I know I am craving social interaction. Use your imagination and dream of the best family get-together ever.
Go so far as picking the date, planning the menu, creating a signature cocktail, and even conjuring up some trivia games. Let’s set the wheels in motion and make it happen.
Step 2: Start Layering with Fabulous, Functional Flooring
Design your outdoor space just as you would your indoor spaces and start with the flooring. An area rug will ground and define the area. Outdoor rugs are relatively inexpensive and easy to clean – just take a garden hose to it and you are good to go.
Next begin layering your “room” with furniture, outdoor fabrics, and of course, must-have accessories.
Step 3: Opt for Durable, Designer Outdoor Furniture
There are many outdoor furniture options these days, from traditional cottage styles to modern and sleek designs.
Aluminum is a good choice because it won’t rust, plus it will last a good long time. We also suggest a wicker look that is made with polypropylene — another material that is easy to clean and lasts for many seasons. Or if you’re looking for something a bit more natural, a wood look material, like teak — that is synthetic, but looks real — will last and last.
Designer Finds:
Floating around the pool on a lounger is so much fun, right? Get inspired with this carefully curated outdoor space – go here to learn more FLOATS.
Step 4: Pick Pretty Performance Fabrics for Comfort
The evolution of outdoor fabrics has come a long way with brands like Sunbrella, Crypton, and InsideOut high performance fabrics (we offer all of these at The Shoppe).
These performance fabrics are made for outdoor living, standing up to wear with long-lasting strength. No longer stiff (and ugly), they are comfortable and soft to the touch. They are made to be easy to clean and stain resistant.
I leave mine out all year long and just scrub them up with the hose and some mild detergent. They are also made in fun colors and patterns with built-in UV protection.
Designer Finds:
What would summer be without sunblock? Get inspired with this carefully curated outdoor space – go here to learn more SUNBLOCK.
Step 5: Add Some Naturally Beautiful Finishing Touches
And don’t forget a few accessories to make your outdoor room feel inviting! Add toss pillows, vases, pots, and even outdoor lamps. This is the best way to personalize your outdoor furniture and add your unique style.
You could also string some lights under the patio cover or install some uplights along the fence for drama. Or, a super easy way to add ambience is with candles. Use lanterns to house them for a touch of interest and comfort. With outdoor lighting you’ll be sure to enjoy your lush outdoor room after the sun goes down.
Designer Finds:
Don’t you sometimes want to escape? Get inspired with this carefully curated outdoor space – go here to learn more ESCAPE.
With all this time spent at home, you can probably complete these 5 outdoor room steps right away and start planning the greatest Labor Day party (AKA Post-Pandemic Party) ever…to meet with loved ones and show off all your outdoor room ideas, of course.
If you need any help with your patio, the designers at KTJ Design Co. are full of outdoor room ideas that will knock your socks off – plus we offer an outdoor furniture line that is top-notch.
Ready for an outdoor space that spoils you silly? Contact us and we’d be delighted to help!
Until next time,
